The dates for compliance to the EPA Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products rule have been extended. EPA has made a prepublication of this rule available here.

The final rule extends:

The December 12, 2017 date for emission standards, recordkeeping, and labeling provisions until December 12, 2018;

Off the Shelf. Formaldehyde detectors are dropping in price. Some are now below $200. Scrutiny of indoor air quality is likely to increase with this trend.

The December 12, 2018 date for import certification provisions until March 22, 2019; and

The December 12, 2023 date for provisions applicable to producers of laminated products until March 22, 2024.

The final rule also extends the end of the transitional period during which Third Party Certifiers (TPCs) recognized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) may certify composite wood products under TSCA Title VI without accreditations issued by an EPA TSCA Title VI Accreditation Body from December 12, 2018 to March 22, 2019.

The extension was granted to allow more time for manufacturers, importers, and retailers to assess the added responsibilities and enforcement mechanisms in the new regulation. This time will be especially valuable for retailers and importers with complex global supply chains to ensure compliance and traceability. UL’s risk management services can help ensure that you are ready before the new deadline and prevent costly interruptions in your supply chain.

UL will continue to publish EPA Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Product updates to our blog as they are made available. We encourage you to visit EPA Formaldehyde website for further information.